After a few appearances in Morgantown, I rushed home to attend and speak at the Jackson County CASA Holiday Christmas Tree Auction. This is a new event and fundraiser to CASA and celebrated its second year this year.
Each business and/or organization within Jackson County are asked to provide a decorated Christmas tree that will be auctioned off for a CASA – Court Appointed Special Advocate – fundraiser. There were about 12 trees donated from various different groups – Women’s Auxiliary Club, Fairplain Union Church, Habitat for Humanity, etc. One tree was adorned with ornaments and décor that supported the Marshall sporting teams, another supported the WVU sporting teams. Another tree was decorated in all blue items, while another was decorated in country gingerbread ornaments. Each tree was different and much thought and effort had obviously gone into them.
There were about 100 in attendance, and a women’s church choir sang as attendees snacked on some refreshments. I spoke about what CASA was, how my platform and position of Miss West Virginia ties into that, and what the fundraiser dollars would be used for. This was an emotional speech, as I cannot begin to imagine the horrors that the children served by CASA have endured. Our CASA volunteers give so much to these children, and they play a huge role in being a mentor to their particular children.
As the bidding began, it was obvious that folks had a favorite they were bound and determined to get. The highest bid was for the CASA tree. This tree was adorned in bronze/brown/gold ornaments and was absolutely gorgeous. My father, Circuit Judge Tom Evans who started CASA, purchased that tree at $460.00 for his office, after much ado!
Thousands of dollars were raised that evening and that money will go toward obtaining, promoting and providing more CASA volunteers in Jackson County. Thanks go to all who donated their time, energy and commitment to the community through this event - another great example of Jackson County spirit!
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